Making a splash for cash

fundraisers made quite a splash in aid Prospect Hospice at the Big Swim event at the weekend.

There were 43 competitors who swam distances of 500m, 1.3km and 3.8km, around Bowmoor Lake, raising cash for the Wroughton-based charity. Sarah Meaden, who did the 1.3km distance, said: “I’m really pleased to support Prospect. I did the 10K run earlier in the year and it was a great experience doing the swim today. “I do what I can to support them as I think they’re such a good cause and I’ve raised around £100 in sponsorship so far.”

Rachel Rose, who did the same distance, said: “I’m glad I could do my bit for Prospect. Family and friends cheered on their loved ones as they did their swims.”

The total funds from the event are still being tallied up but the money will go towards the Adver’s 160 Appeal, which aims to raise £160,000 for Prospect Hospice.

This was the second year that the Big Swim has been held and Genevieve Arney, from the charity, who helped organise the event, said it was a great success.

She said: “It has been wonderful to see even more people supporting the event this year. “We are so pleased it is growing and think it is great that people will come here and dedicate their Saturday morning to supporting Prospect Hospice. “I think it is a nice challenge for people of all ages and abilities as we’d organised various different lengths for people to swim.

“I’d like to say a big thank you to everyone who has taken part, the club for welcoming us down and to the Swindon and District Canoe Club who are out on the water looking out for all the swimmers.”

The 160 Appeal was launched in February to mark the Adver’s 160th anniversary.

Anyone wishing to donate to the charity can visit www.prospect-hospice.net.